A fishing reel includes a frame and a crank shaft mounted to the frame. A kick lever is provided for selective engagement with teeth of a ratchet element keyed to the crank shaft. The kick lever selectively engages the ratchet element to place the reel in one of a cast state and a retrieve state. In one embodiment, the kick lever defines a base portion, a support post, a tooth engaging post and a horizontal reinforcing member that define a window. The window receives an attachment member that slidably secures the kick lever and prevents the kick lever from vertical movement during heavy loads. The unique design of the kick lever prevents the kick lever from moving in undesired directions, thereby ensuring that smooth performance of the reel and prevention of jamming of the mechanism.
